Thursday Trek to Ridgway State Park ~ Ridgway, Colorado

“Think Outside” is the motto of Ridgway, Colorado. Year-round recreation opportunities in Ridgway State Park will show day-trippers and overnight-ers this notion is a way of life.

Ridgway State Park Reservoir looking at Sneffels Mtn Range

Outdoor adventures await in Ridgway State Park. Fifteen minutes north of Ouray and thirty minutes south of Montrose, on Highway 550, are the three distinct areas of Ridgway State Park. Fly fisherman battle the impressive great blue herons for trout along the Uncompaghre River in Pa-Co-Chu-Puk. White sails dot the ice blue surface of the reservoir while voices of happy swimmers and paddle boarders echo to the hikers on ridge trails within Dutch Charlie. Bald Eagles nest in the canyon walls along Dallas Creek and their young can be heard “screeing” as they test their wings.

Glamping has made its way to the state parks with yurts for rent along with primitive to full hook-up campsites. Enjoy a picnic at one of dozens of sheltered areas, swim at the beach, and pets are welcome if kept on a leash. Hikers and bikers will find over fourteen miles of trails with varying degrees of difficulty meandering through the park. The park is home to abundant wildlife and birders will be happy finding additions to their life-lists.

A stop at the visitor center will load you up on maps, gifts, and information from a park ranger or one of the many volunteers. The scenic overlook trail provides opportunity for photos of the dramatic, towering, San Juan Mountains that frame the southern end of the park and reservoir.

Ridgway State Park

Bring a camera, don’t forget the sunscreen, and “Think Outside” for your adventures at Ridgway State Park.